Amelia Island: Full Moon Paddle Tour – PADL Island

Discover the Magic of Amelia Island’s Full Moon Paddle Tour

The Amelia Island: Full Moon Paddle Tour offered by PADL LLC is a captivating nighttime adventure that costs $70 per person and lasts 2 hours. This tour takes place in the salt marshes of Amelia and the Talbot Islands, providing a serene setting under the glow of the full moon. It’s ideal for those interested in wildlife, nature, and paddling, regardless of experience level.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on paddling under moonlight, combined with educational insights about the local eco-system. The tour is guided, includes high-quality paddle equipment and life vests, and offers a safe, accessible way to enjoy Amelia Island’s natural beauty. With a supplier rating of 4.6, this experience is both well-reviewed and reliably organized.

While the 2-hour duration means a relatively brief adventure, the 1.5 hours of paddling ensures plenty of time to connect with nature. It’s best suited for those who enjoy nighttime outdoor activities and are comfortable with non-swimmers and people without mobility impairments. This tour provides a memorable way to explore Amelia Island’s salt marshes in a tranquil, illuminated setting.

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Key Points

• Guided moonlit paddling in the salt marshes of Amelia and Talbot Islands
• No prior experience needed, includes basic paddle instruction
• Wildlife spotting opportunities for dolphins, manatees, and birds
• All necessary gear provided, including paddleboards, kayaks, and glow sticks
• Two-hour experience, with approximately 1.5 hours of paddling
• Accessible for those comfortable with non-swimming activities, but not suitable for people with mobility impairments

How the Full Moon Paddle Tour Begins and What It Includes

The tour starts with a short paddling instruction on land, ensuring everyone feels confident before hitting the water. Participants are introduced to kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) techniques, making it suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Paddle gear such as leashes and quality paddles are provided, along with US Coast Guard-approved life jackets for safety.

A key feature of this tour is the “Dolphin Talk,” which occurs midway through the experience. The guide shares insights on the local eco-system, wildlife, and history of the salt marshes, deepening the connection to the environment. Paddlers work with the current to optimize the experience and enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

Exploring the Salt Marshes of Amelia & Talbot Islands at Night

Participants paddle through the salt marshes, a habitat teeming with wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, and various bird species. The moonlight enhances the natural surroundings, creating a tranquil, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The salt marsh ecosystem is described by the guide, offering context about its ecological importance and the creatures that inhabit it.

The evening timing offers a peaceful contrast to daytime paddling, with the moon illuminating the landscape and reflecting on the water. The current helps ease paddling efforts, making it easier for paddlers to focus on the scenery and wildlife spotting.

Practical Details: Equipment, Safety, and Comfort

All paddling equipment is high-quality and well-maintained, including paddleboards or kayaks, paddles, and leashes. The tour includes safety gear such as life vests that meet U.S. Coast Guard standards, ensuring confidence on the water.

Glow sticks are provided, adding a fun, visible touch to the nighttime experience. Participants are encouraged to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear for comfort, and waterproof bags can be purchased or stored by the guide for belongings. The tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for non-swimmers or those with mobility impairments.

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Timing and Pacing of the 2-Hour Tour

The 2-hour session balances paddling with a midway break for the “Dolphin Talk” and environmental observations. Expect about 1.5 hours of paddling on the water, with paddling planned to go with the current for easier navigation.

This timing allows for a leisurely pace, giving paddlers time to enjoy the moonlit surroundings and wildlife encounters. Most tours are scheduled for evening hours, providing a perfect opportunity to experience nighttime nature in a calm and protected environment.

Meeting Points and Group Size

The tour is operated by PADL LLC, with bookings available that allow for flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The group size is kept manageable, fostering an intimate and engaging environment. Participants are led by an English-speaking live guide who explains the eco-system and answers questions throughout.

Accessibility and Suitability for Different Visitors

This paddle tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or non-swimmers. The physical activity mainly involves paddling and requires a basic level of comfort in water activities. However, the short paddling instruction and current-assisted paddling make it accessible for beginners.

Travelers should bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear for added comfort. The tour’s evening schedule may appeal to those seeking a peaceful, less crowded experience.

Comparing Similar Paddle and Wildlife Tours

This tour is part of a selection of Amelia Island paddling experiences, including sunset paddles and stand-up paddleboard rentals. While this full moon tour emphasizes nighttime tranquility and wildlife encounters, other experiences may focus on sunset views or more active paddling sessions.

For those interested in wildlife-focused eco-adventures, there are options involving dolphin spotting and birdwatching in different settings. The full moon paddle offers a unique, illuminated perspective on Amelia Island’s natural beauty.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Experience?

This tour suits nature lovers, paddling enthusiasts, and nighttime adventure seekers. It’s an excellent choice for beginners looking to try paddleboarding or kayaking in a scenic, safe setting. Due to its peaceful timing and wildlife focus, it appeals to those wanting a relaxed, nature-immersed experience.

It’s less appropriate for people with mobility challenges or non-swimmers, as paddling requires comfort in water. The experience offers a calm, reflective atmosphere perfect for anyone seeking a contemplative outdoor activity under the night sky.

Amelia Island: Full Moon Paddle Tour – A Tranquil Night on the Water

The Amelia Island Full Moon Paddle Tour combines natural beauty, wildlife observation, and nighttime paddling in a way that feels both accessible and deeply engaging. The guides’ knowledge and the quality equipment ensure a safe and enjoyable outing for beginners and paddling veterans alike.

The 2-hour experience offers a balance of paddling and learning, with highlights including wildlife spotting, moonlit scenery, and educational commentary about the salt marsh ecosystem. The midway dolphin talk adds an extra layer of connection with the environment, enriching the overall adventure.

While not suitable for everyone, this tour provides a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for those seeking quiet reflection or wildlife encounters under the full moon. It offers reliable value with easy booking, flexible cancellation policies, and the promise of a memorable night on Amelia Island’s water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is previous paddling experience necessary for this tour?
No, the tour includes a short paddling instruction on land, making it accessible for beginners.

What equipment is provided?
Participants receive a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, paddles, leashes, and US Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Glow sticks are also included.

Can non-swimmers participate safely?
While the tour is open to non-swimmers, people with mobility impairments are not suited for this activity.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and consider purchasing a waterproof bag for personal belongings.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is 2 hours, with about 1.5 hours of paddling.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Full Moon Paddle Tour is wheelchair accessible.

When does the tour usually run?
Most tours occur in the evening, timed to coincide with moonrise and optimal wildlife viewing.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any discounts or payment options?
You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility to accommodate your travel plans.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Expect to see dolphins, manatees, and various bird species that inhabit the salt marshes.

How does this tour compare to other paddle experiences on Amelia Island?
This full moon tour emphasizes nighttime paddling and wildlife encounters, distinct from sunset paddles or rental options which may focus on daylight views or more active paddling.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby